What is kinesiology tape?

Kinesiology tape is used by millions of people worldwide and it works.

What is it?

It is a stretchable breathable cotton that we stick to our skin.

So how does it work?

A latex free, heat sensitive adhesive is applied on a cotton in a wave pattern, it has spaces in between which allow for air to pass through.

Once the cotton is adhered and cured to the skin (the sticky adhesive cures at body temperature): It turns out to be rubber bands glued between the cotton and the skin.

These rubber bands contract with the movement of the body and hold the cotton from pulling away from the skin, it creates a lifting action of the skin from the layers underneath, therefore making more space in between them. (see our video here)

The cotton is now an outer layer on our skin, or a second skin that has no sensory feeling, it feels no heat cold or pinch, it protects the skin.

Kinesiology tape has a few difficulties for first time users. Here are some solutions:

Issue: Because the adhesive is not cured, (remember it cures at body temperature and needs to be gently rubbed on after applying) it is sticky and tricky to work with in the beginning
Solution: Try not to touch the glue.

Issue: Removing the tape is an unpleasant experience if not done properly
Solution: it is ideal to let it detach by itself, let it stay on for as long as you can (it can last up to 14 days). Or if needed, pull it off gently (best when its dry) without letting the skin pull with the tape, best is to hold the skin with your fingers while pulling the tape off.

Issue: Some people might be allergic to the glue
Solution: This only applies to very small fraction of people but best is to remove the tape asap, it's not for you.